Coyle Delight At Double Deal

Posted: Thursday 1st July 2010

Tags: Owen Coyle, Martin Petrov, Robbie Blake

Following the return to training on Thursday, Bolton boss Owen Coyle expressed his delight at completing the signings of Martin Petrov and Robbie Blake.

The duo both join Wanderers on free transfers from Manchester City and Burnley respectively, with Petrov signing a two-year contract at the club and Blake a one-year deal.

After facing the media at the training ground, Coyle admitted he was delighted to have completed both deals.

"He (Petrov) is someone I've admired for a long time because he's a top-class player and this is a tremendous signing for the club," Coyle told the club's official website.

"As far as I'm concerned he's probably one of the best Bosman transfers available. To try to purchase him on the market last year then it would have cost you four or five million pounds easily.

"He has played in a Manchester City side - one which was going for the Champions League - over the last few years so that tells you the level that he's played at. Plus he's got a tremendous pedigree having played at major European clubs like Wolfsburg and Atletico Madrid as well.

"He can play on the left, play on the right and behind the main striker, so he has different dimensions to his play. He's an exciting player, a creator of goals and he's also a scorer of goals and he's a tremendous all-round player."

Coyle also believes the surprise signing of Blake is a quality addition for the club, having worked closely with the 34-year-old during his time at Turf Moor.

"We are delighted to have signed such an experienced footballer in Robbie Blake," Coyle said.

"He has proven Premier League ability and adds to our striking options. He is a bubbly character who will be a great lad to have in the dressing room.

"I worked with him for two fantastic years and I am pleased to link up with him again because I know a number of clubs were interested in securing his signature."

Burnden Aces understand Petrov will wear the number 10 shirt next season, with Blake taking number 20 from the departed Ricardo Vaz Te.